Breathing New Life into a Cary, NC Split-Level Home

At Hykal Homes, we thrive on turning "what ifs" into "wow!" Our recent renovation project in Cary, NC, perfectly encapsulates this ethos. This 1980s split-level home, with its 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, was a diamond in the rough. Its prime location and nearly 3,000 square feet of potential made it a perfect candidate for transformation, even though it hadn't been updated in decades.

The Challenge

The original house was a relic of its era—wall paneling, inadequate insulation, and cramped, enclosed spaces defined the layout. The small bathrooms and a dated, closed-off kitchen reflected the design norms of the 1980s, but not the lifestyle needs of today. While functional, the home lacked the modern flow, natural light, and contemporary features that today’s families desire.

The Vision

We envisioned a modern retreat where functionality met elegance—a space that not only felt open and inviting but also maximized its potential for hosting families. The goal was to reimagine the layout, creating a home that could comfortably accommodate guests while embracing the latest in design and convenience.

The Transformation

A Masterful Lower-Level Redesign

To start, we reimagined the lower level. By combining two smaller bedrooms, we created a luxurious master suite. This retreat now boasts a spacious walk-in closet and a spa-like en-suite bathroom. It's a serene sanctuary that sets the tone for the rest of the home.

Reconfiguring the Upstairs Baths

The two original upstairs bathrooms were reconfigured to maximize space and functionality. The updated layouts provide larger, more accommodating spaces for guests, ensuring everyone has their own private oasis.

Opening the Heart of the Home

The original kitchen and living areas were compartmentalized by load-bearing walls, limiting natural light and making the space feel closed off. By removing these walls, we achieved an open floor plan that allows sunlight to flow freely. The new kitchen is now the focal point of the home, featuring expansive counters, modern appliances, and seamless connectivity to the dining and living areas—a perfect setup for entertainment.

Adding Functional Spaces

Unfinished spaces were transformed to provide more utility and comfort. A new laundry room and mudroom make day-to-day living easier, while a dedicated home office caters to remote work needs. These additions not only improved functionality but also increased the home's value and appeal.

The Result

The renovated home now features:
 4 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms
 A stunning open-concept kitchen and living space
 A cozy master suite with luxury finishes
 Two inviting living areas perfect for families or groups
 Enhanced functionality with a mudroom, laundry room, and home office
Today, this once-dated split-level is a thriving Airbnb, hosting families who vacation in Cary and
the surrounding areas. With its modern updates, spacious design, and thoughtful touches, the
home is a true retreat for its guests.

Why It Matters

This project is a testament to the potential of older homes. With smart design choices, strategic investments, and a vision for what’s possible, even the most dated spaces can be transformed into stunning, functional, and valuable properties.